San Diego State vs. Utah State: 2019-20 key storylines for matchup

How good are the Aztecs

There should be no doubt that this San Diego State team is for real. The Aztecs are undefeated and have three wins over KenPom top-40 teams – all of which came on the road. According to Sports Reference, four Aztecs are averaging double digits in scoring, led by none other than Malachi Flynn. The former Washington State star is putting up 15 points per game and has had an explosive debut with San Diego State thus far. Equally impressive is the production of those around Flynn – Matt Mitchell, Jordan Schakel, and Vanderbilt transfer Yanni Wetzell are each scoring in double figures as well.

That being said, the nationally ranked Aztecs will likely be favored in Saturday’s game against Utah State, and deservedly so. However, this could be the most difficult test San Diego State has seen thus far. The Aztecs will need big performances from Malachi Flynn and Matt Mitchell, who has seen a ton of playing time despite having been relegated to coming off of the bench.

Most recently, against Fresno State, Mitchell started in place of the injured Nathan Mensah. How the defense performs without Mensah will be something to keep an eye on against Utah State – Especially considering the Aztecs are tasked with containing the dangerous duo of Sam Merrill and Justin Bean.

San Diego State’s rotation has been stellar, and not just because of talent. Chemistry is not an issue here, and the result is consistent and composed play by the Aztecs. More on how that will be absolutely vital in this Saturday’s game in just a bit. Let’s take a quick look at the home team.